What was a significant impact of the Baroque period on music?

The Baroque period, spanning roughly from 1600 to 1750, is notable for its significant advancements in musical techniques and styles, particularly the introduction of ornamentation and the contrast in dynamics. Ornamentation involved the addition of expressive musical flourishes that enhanced the emotional quality and complexity of melodies, allowing performers to showcase their virtuosity. The use of ornamentation became a hallmark of the period, adding depth and character to vocal and instrumental music.

Additionally, the Baroque era saw the emergence of terraced dynamics, where sudden changes between loud and soft passages became a key feature of compositions. This created a dramatic contrast that heightened the emotional impact of the music, influencing the way composers approached musical storytelling. These techniques laid the groundwork for future developments in Western art music, making the Baroque period a crucial time for innovation and artistic expression in music.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary characteristics of the Baroque period. Monophony, while present in earlier periods, became less prominent as polyphony and harmony began to develop significantly during the Baroque. Jazz improvisation is a product of a much later era, and the Baroque period is characterized by complex forms rather than a focus solely on vocal music and simple harmonies.